Zenith Revisits the Defy Collection at LVMH Watch Week 2026
Faithful revivals join cutting‑edge material innovations in the latest showcase.
Summary
- Zenith shines a spotlight on its Defy collection at LVMH Watch Week 2026
- New releases include the black ceramic Defy Skyline Chronograph and the rose gold Tourbillon Skeleton, a silver-toned dial Defy Skyline 36, as well as the A3643 Revival
At LVMH Watch Week 2026, Zenith made its return with a suite of new additions to its cornerstone Defy collection. This year’s releases focus on an urban architectural vocabulary, blending high-frequency precision with material innovation like black ceramic and rose gold. From the milestone introduction of the first skeleton tourbillon in the Skyline line to faithful heritage revivals, the lineup explores a vision where watchmaking structures space and time as a “city in miniature.”
Defy Skyline Chronograph in Black Ceramic
The Defy Skyline Chronograph returns with a commanding metropolitan presence, now crafted entirely in deep black ceramic. The material’s scratch-resistant and lightweight properties sharpen the watch’s sculptural 42mm contours, while a gradient dial transitions from a lighter center to a dark periphery, echoing the play of shadow across a cityscape. It’s powered by the El Primero 3600 caliber, a 5 Hz high-frequency movement that features a central seconds hand completing a full rotation every 10 seconds for precise 1/10th of a second measurement. This is fitted with an integrated ceramic bracelet and a quick strap-change system for a seamless look, or a black rubber strap for easy, everyday wear.
Defy Skyline Skeleton in Black Ceramic
Pushing the boundaries of transparency, the new Defy Skyline Skeleton pairs a black ceramic dodecagonal case with a striking gold-toned movement. The openworked dial, shaped after Zenith’s emblematic four-pointed star, reveals every technical facet of the El Primero 3620 SK caliber. A signature 1/10th of a second indicator at 6 o’clock creates a perpetual visual rhythm reminiscent of the city’s constant motion. Like the black ceramic Defy Skyline Chronograph, this timepiece includes both an integrated ceramic bracelet and a tonal rubber strap.
Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton in Rose Gold
Marking a milestone for the collection, the Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton is the first of its kind to join the Skyline family. Housed in a radiant 41mm rose gold case, the watch features an intense blue El Primero 3630 SK movement that appears suspended within its openworked frame. The double-tier sloping bridges and skeletonized barrel offer a mesmerizing view of the tourbillon and mainspring as they power the 50-hour reserve. Limited to just 50 pieces, this reference is paired with a matching solid rose gold integrated bracelet, alongside a blue rubber strap with a solid gold folding clasp.
Defy Skyline 36 With Silver-Toned Dial
The unisex Defy Skyline 36 continues its evolution with a new, refined silver-toned dial adorned with the signature geometric star motif. Available in a classic steel case or a radiant variant set with 52 brilliant-cut diamonds, the 36mm faceted case perfectly balances urban elegance with daily functionality. It’s powered by the automatic Elite 670 caliber, providing a 50-hour power reserve visible through the sapphire caseback. These models are complete with a practical interchangeable strap system, with a stainless steel bracelet as well as Zenith’s signature starry-sky pattern rubber strap in black.
Defy Revival A3643
For heritage collectors, the Defy Revival A3643 is a faithful reissue of a pivotal 1969 creation nicknamed the “strongbox” for its rugged octagonal case. This modern reproduction features an iconic 14-sided bezel and a sunray silver dial meticulously recreated through high-precision scans of the original vintage reference. While it maintains its retro 37mm proportions and distinctive “ladder” steel bracelet, it is updated with a sapphire caseback to showcase the Elite 670 manufacture movement.
